Recommend A 2 Bike Rack For Lexus RX350

Question:

What 2 bike rack do you recommend for a 2008 Lexus RX350 - one ladies Specialized and one mans Specialized bike?

asked by: Davis A

Expert Reply:

You have a few options for a bike rack for your 2008 Lexus RX350. You could go with a hitch mounted bike rack, a trunk bike rack, or a roof bike rack. Depending on how often you go biking can be one of the biggest factors in choosing the bike rack that is right for you. If you plan on biking often, I would recommend going with a hitch bike rack, for ease of loading and traveling. If you will only be biking seldom, or traveling short distances, I would recommend going with a trunk bike rack.

For a hitch mounted bike rack, you would first need to install a trailer hitch like the CURT Trailer Hitch # 13530, which is a Class III 2 inch hitch. The # 13530 hitch has a 2 inch receiver and is going to be compatible with a wide range of hitch bike racks and other hitch accessories.

Then, for a hitch mounted bike rack, you have options between a frame mount rack or a platform style rack. I would recommend a platform style rack like the Swagman XTC-2 Bike Rack, part # S64670. This bike rack will keep your bikes apart and makes for easier loading. The XTC-2 features padded hooks to prevent scratching your frame. The bikes are secured at the wheels and the frame.

Going with a hitch mounted platform rack is ideal, because you bikes are secured at the wheels and the frame. Also, your bikes will not be rubbing or scratching against each other, which is important with higher-end bikes like a Specialized.

To secure the XTC-2 bike rack to the hitch and secure the bikes, I would recommend using the Swagman Locking Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable, part # S64031.

If you plan to just bike very seldom, I would just go with a trunk bike rack, I would recommend the Thule Passage 2 Bike Carrier, part # TH910XT. The Thule Passage features anti-sway cradles to keep your bikes in place when being carried.

Since you will be carrying a womens bike, I would recommend using the Thule Adapter Bar, part # TH982XT. This adapter bar will make for easier mounting of the womens bike and allow you to carry it level.

The reason I do not recommend a roof bike rack is for ease of loading on to your Lexus SUV.

I have linked a video review of the Swagman XTC-2 Bike Rack, part # S64670, the Thule Passage 2 Bike Carrier, part # TH910XT and an FAQ on bike racks. Also linked is video installation of the CURT # 13530 hitch also.